Dual-use Drones Innovative Programme
The Dual-use Drones Innovative Programme has launched a call for proposals managed under the European Cluster for Dual-Use Innovation (ECDI) and hosted via Aerospace Valley. The mechanism offers direct financial support to businesses seeking to broaden the civil, social, digital, and environmental footprint of their dual-use aerial technologies.
Selected initiatives can receive up to €35,000, which covers up to 100% of eligible project costs. Applications must be completed and submitted through the candidate portal before the closing deadline on September 30, 2026, at 15:00 UTC.
What is funded
The call provides targeted financing for projects that adapt existing drone systems, components, and related technologies to address civil, digital, environmental, and social challenges. Supported activities allow companies to transition or adjust their business models, production lines, and technical solutions away from strictly defence-oriented niches.
Funding enables businesses to undertake operational and technical adjustments necessary for commercialisation across civilian sectors. Grants are capped at €35,000 per initiative, with the programme providing up to 100% funding coverage for approved activities.
Who can apply
Participation is open to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups that meet the standard EU definition for enterprise size. Applicants must already have an active commercial or technical presence within the dual-use technology sector.
In addition, applying entities must be directly engaged in the manufacturing or development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or their specialized components. Eligibility is geographically limited to businesses legally registered in an EU Member State or a country participating in the Single Market Programme (COSME).
Conditions and requirements
Proposed technological solutions must have already achieved a substantial stage of maturity prior to applying. Specifically, the donor requires that the product or component under development possesses a Technology Readiness Level of TRL 6 or higher.
Practical tip. Ensure that your technical documentation clearly substantiates TRL 6 status through verifiable test results or prototype validation in relevant environments. Align your narrative directly with dual-use adaptation, clearly detailing how your existing UAV components will transition into civilian and digital applications.
How to apply
Submissions must be compiled in English and lodged electronically via the Aerospace Valley candidate management portal. Applicants are required to deliver an innovative product development plan alongside all formal documentation confirming SME status and technical eligibility.
The submission portal will remain open until September 30, 2026, closing strictly at 15:00 UTC. Potential applicants should prepare their submission materials early to ensure all administrative files and development plans meet system specifications.
Applications are submitted on the donor’s page: 3742003280.wiin.io.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Donor | European Cluster for Dual-Use Innovation (ECDI) / Aerospace Valley |
| Programme | Dual-use Drones Innovative Programme |
| Budget | Up to €35,000 (up to 100% funding) |
| Deadline | September 30, 2026 (15:00 UTC) |
| Eligible applicants | SMEs and Start-ups active in UAV or component dual-use markets (TRL 6+) |
| Geography | European Union and Single Market Programme (COSME) countries |
| Type of support | Grant (financial support) |
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